Andalusia is your typical Spanish setting, boasting a mixture of whitewashed houses crawling with bougainvillea and narrow, twisting alleyways that hold a rich and fascinating history. The region is renowned for its delicious array of traditional tapas dishes, its lively culture, and its dedication to preserving Spain’s past in the present, and nowhere does this better than Seville. Down cobbled streets and in emerging plazas, I’m transported back in time through the collection of historic edifices that pepper the city. The Casa Romana Hotel Boutique offers the perfect setting to enjoy this fusion of history and is the ideal place to go back in time to.
Seville has experienced an eclectic past, made up of the ideas and cultures of numerous different groups. I chose to delve into the Roman narrative, aided helpfully by the Casa Romana which draws on the beginnings of Seville. Of course, much has changed since Seville’s early life, but the hotel retains a respectful nod towards this aspect of its history, complete with high-ceilinged architecture and muted column murals.
With its grand courtyard-style patio decorated with ornate, detailed sculptures and its big, semi-circular interior windows, I pictured myself reclining in a lounger being fanned and fed shiny, plump grapes. Alas, this was just a fictitious thought, although the friendly, welcoming service was not far off!
In contrast to the bold Roman details visible in the patio, the rooms and interior décor are bright, airy, and colourful, proving that despite its roots in Seville’s early history, the Casa Romana is very much a part of the present day.
In search of cultural activities and, of course, a tasty tapas dinner, I head out onto the streets of Seville, walking in the footsteps of past emperors and rulers. The atmosphere is electric, with the sounds of lively flamenco dancing and traditional Andalusian music pouring out from the vast selection of bars and restaurants that line the Barrio de Santa Cruz.
And Casa Romana has the perfect finale for a day of delving into history and culture – a spacious rooftop terrace with hot tub for enjoying views across the city. With a drink in hand, it’s the perfect place for relaxing, reflecting, and exercising the imagination after the day’s discoveries.
The rooms are regally named after well-known historical figures from the Roman Empire, the atrium-style patio is surrounded by huge columns, and there is an abundance of marble throughout the entire hotel, so it’s natural to feel like royalty. But as well as this, guests are treated to all of the comfortable luxuries that are available today. That means stylish en-suite bathrooms, WiFi, coffee machines, and big flat-screen TVs. What more could a ruler want?
Whichever part of Seville’s traditions, culture, and history you choose to delve into, make sure you choose the Casa Romana for a luxurious, welcoming glimpse into the beginnings and early life of the city.